Dear Cathy, 

              Our 93-pound dog needed his own space, so we bought a few dog beds to keep him comfortable and off the furniture. One is in the kitchen; the other is in our bedroom. He doesn’t ever sleep on the dog beds, though. He prefers to sleep in our closet or under the dining room table. Why isn’t our dog using the dog beds? – Ryle

Dear Ryle,

Your big dog is giving you a big hint. Like many dogs, he doesn’t relish being exposed in an open room. In the wild, dogs instinctively seek out small, sheltered areas that feel protected, which helps them feel secure and hidden from potential dangers. In your home, he may see spaces like closets and under the dining room table as safe, den-like spots, so he gravitates to them instead of the open dog beds. To help him feel more comfortable, here are a few adjustments you can try:

1. Reposition the Beds for Privacy: Move his beds into corners or cozier areas of the house, ideally against a wall or near furniture where he can feel less exposed but still have a clear view of the room. Dogs often prefer to rest where they can observe without being in the center of activity.
2. Use Familiar Scents for Comfort: Add a blanket or an old shirt with your scent to his bed. Dogs are highly scent-driven, and having your scent close by can make his bed feel more familiar and reassuring, encouraging him to use it.
3. Experiment with Bed Texture and Firmness: Sometimes dogs avoid beds if the material or firmness isn’t quite right. Large dogs, especially, often appreciate beds with a bit more support. If his current beds are very soft, try adding a firmer layer or a cozy blanket to see if he finds that more inviting.
4. Consider a Covered Bed: If the repositioned beds don’t work, consider investing in a Cozy Cave™ dog bed – or something similar with a half-cover design for dogs to burrow and feel enclosed. There are also covered, elevated beds that mimic cave-like conditions, providing him with both airflow and the security he naturally seeks.
5. Introduce a Dog Kennel for a Den-Like Space: A dog kennel can be a perfect den if you drape it with a comforter on three sides, creating a private, cave-like environment. My big dog loves his kennel, strategically placed in a corner of the family room with a clear view of us. If a traditional kennel doesn’t suit your style, dog kennel end tables offer a more decorative alternative with the same sense of security.
6. Reinforce the Space with Positive Reinforcement: Once you’ve made these adjustments, try encouraging him to use the bed by rewarding him with treats or praise when he lies on it. This positive reinforcement helps him associate the bed with relaxation and safety, increasing the likelihood that he’ll use it consistently.
7. Observe and Adapt: Keep an eye on where he naturally gravitates and adjust based on his preferences. For example, if he prefers firmer surfaces or tucked-away spaces, try replicating those elements in his bed setup. Small changes can greatly affect his comfort and willingness to use his bed.

By aligning his sleeping areas with his instincts and providing a secure, comfortable space, you’ll help him feel at ease in his designated spot, potentially reducing his need to find alternative resting places. This approach not only supports his comfort but also helps strengthen his bond with his family by providing a space that feels uniquely his within the home.

Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, and columnist with more than 35 years in the field of animal welfare. If you are interested in her children’s books, please visit https://cathyrosenthal.com/petpunditpublishing/. Send your pet questions to cathy@petpundit.com.

Originally appeared on CathyRosenthal.com | Creating a cozy den: Helping your dog feel safe and comfortable in his own space